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Published on: January 20, 2022
Evaluation of pulmonary hypertension in a child: role of computed tomography
Saurabh Kumar Gupta1, Anita Saxena, Gurpreet Singh Gulati
1Department of Cardiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Room no. 29, 7th floor, New Delhi 110029, India.
Insights
Diagnosing pediatric pulmonary hypertension requires identifying the cause. This case study emphasizes CT angiography
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Cardiology
- Pulmonary Hypertension
- Vascular Imaging
Background:
- Pediatric pulmonary hypertension (PH) diagnosis is complex, with outcomes varying by etiology.
- Pulmonary veno-occlusive disease (PVOD) has a poor prognosis despite advances.
Observation:
- A 12-year-old girl presented with severe pulmonary hypertension.
- Initial evaluation was challenging due to unexplained symptoms.
Findings:
- Stepwise diagnostic evaluation, including CT angiography, confirmed PVOD.
- Cardiac imaging was crucial in localizing the pulmonary hypertension's site.
Implications:
- Accurate diagnosis of PVOD is vital for pediatric PH patient prognostication.
- Correctly identifying PVOD aids in avoiding inappropriate therapeutic interventions.
- Highlights the critical role of advanced imaging in pediatric vascular disease management.
Abstract:
Unexplained pulmonary hypertension in pediatric patient is a diagnostic challenge. The natural history as well as management depends upon etiology of pulmonary hypertension. Despite newer insights in pathophysiology and management strategies, the outcome of pulmonary veno-occlusive disease remains dismal. The author's report a case of 12-year-old girl who presented with severe pulmonary hypertension. Stepwise evaluation and CT angiographic assessment in the index case led to definitive diagnosis of pulmonary veno-occlusive disease. This case highlights the role of cardiac imaging in localising site of pulmonary hypertension. It is important for health care professionals involved in care of patients with pulmonary hypertension to make correct diagnosis of pulmonary veno-occlusive disease for better prognostication as well as to avoid therapeutic mishaps.
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